Oman says Iran is responsible for protecting the Strait of Hormuz under a recent memorandum of understanding. Muscat also rejected imposing transit fees on ships using the strategic waterway while supporting regional cooperation. The remarks are significant for global shipping, energy markets, and countries relying on uninterrupted maritime trade.
Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi said Iran bears responsibility for keeping the Strait of Hormuz free from any threats under the agreement. He added that Oman is prepared to support regional and international efforts to safeguard maritime routes if requested. However, he stressed that Oman does not support charging transit fees on vessels passing through the strategic waterway.
Instead, Al Busaidi said countries could voluntarily discuss fees for maritime, environmental, and navigation-related services. He explained that such services could include protecting shipping lanes, preventing marine pollution, and improving emergency response capabilities. According to him, any fee structure should be developed through consultations with concerned countries and international shipping companies.
Earlier, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran and Oman had reached a common understanding on managing the Strait of Hormuz. He said both countries held detailed discussions on the future administration of the waterway and agreed on several key issues. Gharibabadi also stated that Oman, as a coastal state, supports playing a role in future management arrangements and favours charging fees for services provided in the strait.
The Iranian official added that Tehran and Muscat will establish technical committees to advance the initiative. He said experts from both countries are expected to begin specialised negotiations within the next seven to eight days. Those discussions will focus on drafting a framework and finalising navigation arrangements for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz.